The general partnership interest (which is the interest with the rights to control all matters relating to the operation of the team) will remain in the immediate Richardson family. The limited partnership interests, which are the economic interests, will remain in the family but have been and will be more widely distributed (including into trusts for descendants) as a matter of estate planning. This is what I've been told by people with a basis for knowledge, and it isn't any surprise--it's exactly what you would expect for a professional sports franchise.

The limited partners generally don't have any real rights except to share in profits. The minority limiteds aren't going to take over the team when Jerry dies. They are very much a "silent minority," which is customary for minority investors in pro sports franchises.

Remember that a different Richardson-controlled family company owns the stadium. The city owns the land under and around the stadium. The Richardsons have an immense investment in the facilities and the community. It's very unlikely the team would be relocated, at least in the foreseeable future.

I feel like we're in good hands as long as JR is alive. That said, the man is aging. So my questions are as follows:

1) Who is likely to own the team after he passes in your prediction?

2) Is there a chance at that point the Panthers would be moved out of Carolina if team support does not improve (i.e. empty seats at stadium, already smaller market, etc.)

Discussions like this make you realize that every Sunday really is pivotal in getting this franchise on the right track as well as players like Cam Newton working out.

You and I disagree.

As for who owns the Panthers after JR is gone, it had better be a visionary who is able and willing to delegate control to those who are qualified to exercise control from the GM down to the coaching staff. I don't want any more puppet masters in here.

Why is Richardson so afraid to speak to the media? Anytime he does, it's clear it was set up a month in afvance and every single question was cleared ahead of time. You fire your General Manager and your HC does the Press Conference. No comment from the owner? I can understand being hands off, but this is ridiculous. No wonder this franchise is such a disaster.

Also, why did he fire his sons, exactly? No official reason was given. Why is everything so shrouded in secrecy? What is he afraid of?